The Mellifluous Mr Khan

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan was recently in India after a break of four long years. The Pakistani singer has crooned for many Bollywood composers and has a huge fan following in the country. His unique voice has made most of his songs into chartbusters. Dil Toh Bachcha Hai Ji from Ishqiya, Tere Mast Do Nain from Dabangg, and more recently, Zindagi (reprise version) from Bajrangi  Bhaijaan are a few of the songs that come to mind when we think of his mellifluous voice. Rahat calls India his second home and says, “It feels fantastic to have come back after four long years.”

Rahat recalls his performances with uncle Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and father Farrak Fateh Ali Khan on many occasions in India, with nostalgia. He said, “I have great memories of performing with my late mentor and uncle in India. The fact that people in India have given me so much love, affection and commercial benefit has truly been an integral part of my life.”

Rahat has also joined the trend of performing reprise numbers for different tracks, the recent one being Zindagi. When asked what he thinks of this trend and why chose to sing this particular song, Rahat replied, “Many elements in the world of music have changed and if the element of ‘reprise songs’ is the best, we would have to wait and see where it goes. As for the track Zindagi, I did not exactly choose it. The melody was soulful, and it called out to me.”

As he works on singles and albums, Rahat chooses to lend his voice for Bollywood numbers only when the song instantly rings the right chords in his heart. “Luckily, this has been the case so far and all the songs that I have performed are close to my heart. I am glad that the songs that come to me are melodious and at the same time meaningful.”

Rahat’s most recent works are with composers Pritam and Vishal Bhardwaj. About his experience working with them, Rahat said, “Working with Sallu bhai is memorable anytime, coupled with that Pritamji is very talented and that reflects beautifully in his music. On the other hand, Vishal bhai and I have collaborated a number of times before, and there is history there. It is like magic every single time.” However, the best factor about both these songs according to him is the addition of “wow factor” as he calls it “by Rekha bhabhi”.

Rahat is looking forward to finishing his work on the next album between Diwali and New Year. “Mashallah, I have a very dedicated management team who are looking at several opportunities with film songs, music labels, talent shows and yes, of course the very special album that I am currently working on,” he concludes.